The Roughest Areas In Manchester

Manchester, the most historic city in the northwest of England, known for being the world's first industrial city and the birthplace of world renowned music and culture. However, similar to many other major city centres, certain neighbourhoods are recognised as dangerous areas in Manchester. These areas often have a high crime rate, posing significant safety concerns for residents and visitors.

Understanding areas to avoid is vital for both visitors and residents who wish to navigate the city safely.

The local authorities have been working tirelessly to address these concerns. Police officers play a crucial role in managing crime and improving community safety in the area.

At Absolute Digital Solutions we work with Greater Manchester Police and other emergency services regularly, whether it be providing CCTV footage of a criminal incident or notifying them of theft or trespassing through our triggered alarm systems.

This post examines the top 10 most dangerous areas in Manchester, providing insights into what makes these neighbourhoods unique..

Introduction to Safety Concerns

Manchester, a vibrant city with a diverse culture, faces challenges related to safety concerns. The city has experienced a rise in crime rates, with violent crimes and gang-related violence being significant concerns. According to the Greater Manchester Police, the city has seen an increase in reported crimes, making it essential for residents and visitors to be aware of the safety concerns. The local authorities and police force are working together to combat crime and improve safety measures.

Crimes per 1,000 People

The crime rate in Manchester is a significant concern, with 158 offences per 1,000 people. This rate is higher than the national average, making Manchester one of the most dangerous areas in the UK. The crime rate is calculated by dividing the number of crimes in an area by the population size, allowing for a fairer comparison of crime levels in areas with different population sizes. The most common crimes in Manchester include theft, vandalism, and anti-social behaviour.

Dangerous areas in Manchester

1. Moss Side

Moss Side has historically grappled with gang-related violence and drug offences. Moss Side also faces significant issues with public order offences. Despite ongoing regeneration efforts, it remains one of the city’s most challenging areas in terms of crime. ​

2. Salford

Although a separate city adjacent to Manchester, Salford experiences high crime rates, including burglary, theft, and violent offences. The rising crime rate has led to increasing security concerns for both residents and visitors alike. The area reported a crime rate of 135.2 per 1,000 residents in 2024. ​

3. Cheetham Hill

Known for various criminal activities such as theft, robbery, and drug-related offences, Cheetham Hill continues to face challenges despite efforts to curb criminal activities.

4. Oldham

Oldham has been identified as one of the UK’s more troubled areas, with a crime rate of 126.1 per 1,000 residents, including significant instances of violent crime and theft. However, Oldham has seen an eight percent decrease in recorded crime over the past year.

5. Longsight

Longsight has a history of gang activity and continues to deal with issues related to violent crime and anti-social behaviour. Additionally, Longsight also faces issues with roadside crimes, which contribute to the broader safety concerns in the area.

6. Harpurhey

This area experiences challenges related to theft and drug offences, contributing to its reputation as a high-crime neighborhood. Harpurhey also faces significant issues with vehicle crime, which further impacts the community's safety and security.

7. Blackley

Blackley has been associated with higher levels of anti-social behaviour and violent crime, although local authorities are implementing initiatives to improve safety.

Blackley also deals with illegal activities such as gang wars and drug-related crimes.

8. Wythenshawe

As one of Europe’s largest housing estates, Wythenshawe faces ongoing issues with violent crime and anti-social behaviour, despite some improvements in recent years. Wythenshawe has also seen issues with counterfeit items as part of organized crime activities.

9. Beswick

Located in east Manchester, Beswick contends with violent crime and burglary, impacting the sense of security among residents. Beswick also faces issues with roadside crimes, which contribute to the broader safety concerns in the area.

10. Ancoats

While Ancoats has undergone significant regeneration, certain areas still face issues related to theft and anti-social behaviour. Law enforcement has successfully dismantled several organized crime networks in Ancoats.

It’s important to note that crime can vary within neighborhoods, and many areas are undergoing positive changes.Community initiatives, increased policing, and urban development projects are contributing to improvements in safety across Manchester. For the most current and detailed crime statistics, residents and visitors can consult resources like Police.uk and the Greater Manchester Police.​

Drug Related Offences

Drug-related offences are a significant concern in Manchester, with organised crime groups operating in the city. The police have reported an increase in drug-related crimes, including possession and dealing. The local authorities are working to disrupt these networks and bring offenders to justice. Visitors to the city should be aware of the risks associated with drug-related activities and take necessary precautions to stay safe.

Community Engagement

Community engagement is crucial in fighting crime and improving safety concerns in Manchester. The local authorities and police are working together with the community to identify and address safety concerns. Residents and visitors can play a vital role in helping to prevent crime by reporting suspicious activity and cooperating with the police. By working together, the community can help to create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.

Safety Initiatives

The local authorities and police have implemented various safety initiatives to combat crime and improve safety concerns in Manchester. These initiatives include increased police presence, particularly in areas with high crime rates, and proactive problem-solving approaches to address the root causes of crime. The police have also introduced new technologies, such as CCTV cameras, to help prevent and detect crime. Additionally, the city has seen a significant reduction in crime rates in some areas, thanks to the efforts of the police and local authorities.

Recommendations for Visitors

Visitors and residents of Greater Manchester should be aware of the safety concerns and take necessary precautions to stay safe. Here are some recommendations:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in areas with high crime rates.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use secure payment methods.

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.

• Follow local advice and guidance from the police and local authorities.

• Report any suspicious activity to the police. By taking these precautions, visitors can help to stay safe and enjoy their time in Manchester.

• Businesses and Homes: Invest in security systems such as alarms, intercoms and cctv.

Here at Absolute, we have an ongoing commitment to providing security solutions to businesses and homes throughout Greater Manchester, If you would like more information about our services please visit https://www.absolutesystems.co.uk/cctv-manchester